MAJOR FUNCTION:

This is responsible technical work in the enforcement and control of animals (dogs and cats). An employee in this class works under general supervision and uses initiative to make decisions and solve problems within the framework of the County’s animal control ordinance and Florida Law, including Chapter 828.30, Florida Statutes. Investigate citizen complaints related to animals and referring citizens to the proper enforcement agency when necessary. Ensure the protection of the public by removal of dangerous animals. Prepare written and oral reports.

TRAINING AND EXPERIENCE

Must have a High School Diploma, or equivalent, and at least one (1) year experience in animal control, code enforcement, law enforcement, Military, or closely related field; or, any equivalent combination of training and experience that provides the required knowledge, skills and abilities. Must possess and maintain a valid Florida Driver’s License.

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Ability to read, understand, and enforce County ordinances and applicable laws.

The ability to speak and hear clearly to obtain and provide information to the public both in person and by telephone.

Routinely required to use both hands while in various positions of walking, standing and stooping when performing essential job functions.

Required to sit for extended periods of time while performing essential office duties. Manual dexterity is required to operate copy machine, calculator, maintain office files and records.

Knowledge of humane methods of capturing and handling animals.

Knowledge of the rules and regulations regarding animal services.

Strong organizational skills.

Ability to understand and follow oral and written instructions.

Ability to communicate clearly verbally and in writing.

Ability to project and maintain a positive image of Columbia County.

Ability to prioritize and perform multiple tasks.

Ability to manage time effectively and meet deadlines.

Ability to maintain detailed files and records.

Ability to work closely with others as a team.

Ability to prepare and present clear, accurate, concise and objective written and oral reports for magistrate hearings or board meetings.

Knowledge of the geography of the County, all unincorporated areas and the general roadway system of the County.

Must be able to operate a motor vehicle in a safe and efficient manner.

SALARY: $19.35 per hour plus benefits

DEADLINE FOR RECEIVING APPLICATIONS: 04/23/2024

Each applicant is required to submit a complete County Application for Employment. Successful applicants must pass pre-employment physical, physical agilities, criminal history background check, driver's license check and drug screening.

Applications should be submitted to:

HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE

COLUMBIA COUNTY BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

Post Office Box 1529

Lake City, Florida 32056-1529

(386) 758-2123: TDD (386)758-2139

AN EEO/AA/VP/ADA EMPLOYER

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

Answers questions from the public concerning interpretation of the County’s Animal Control Ordinance and applicable Florida Law. Responds to complaints involving animal (dogs and cats) violations and works with the violator to correct problem. Attends Animal Control Magistrate meetings as required concerning violations. Must be able to communicate effectively in oral and written form and understand complex oral and written instructions. Attempts to locate animal owners and obtain information necessary to satisfy complaint and ensure regulations are enforced. Delivers animals to designated facilities for care and boarding or disposition. Advises citizens on responsibilities of animal ownership. Issues warning notices and citations to owner(s) of animal(s) when animal control ordinance has been violated. Obtains necessary information in case of animal bites, advises all parties on proper procedure. Must have ability to perform the essential functions of this position with or without reasonable accommodations.

ESSENTIAL PHYSICAL SKILLS:

Ability to use both hands while in various positions of walking, standing and stooping when performing essential job functions. Ability to communicate both orally and in writing. Acceptable eyesight and

hearing (with or without correction) to safely perform essential functions. Reaching, pulling and pushing, walking, standing, kneeling, bending and stooping. Required to sit for extended periods while performing essential office duties. Manual dexterity is required to operate copy machine, calculator, maintain office files and records.

NONESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Performs other tasks as assigned [These essential job functions are not to be construed as a complete statement of all duties performed. Employees will be required to perform other job-related marginal duties as required.]

WORK ENVIRONMENT

Majority of duties are performed outdoors, frequently in extreme weather conditions. Duties shall be performed anywhere inside the County. Job functions are performed during normal working day but may require additional hours to complete daily job tasks and/or attend meetings or hearings as necessary. During emergency conditions, all County employees are automatically considered emergency service workers. County employees are subject to being called to work in the event of a disaster, such as a hurricane, or other emergency situation and are expected to perform emergency service duties, as assigned.

PROFESSIONAL LICENSE

Possession of a valid Florida Driver’s License required (minimum class “E”). Must have, or obtain within six (6) month of hire, a Florida Animal Control Association approved Animal Control Officer Certification as required by Chapter 828.27, Florida Statutes.

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Animal Control Officer